Health Department promotes HIV testing

The Vermont Department of Health encourages Vermonters to get an HIV test at their own doctor’s office or at one of more than 30 free, anonymous testing sites around the state. June 27 is National HIV Testing Day, an annual observance to promote HIV testing in the United States.

“HIV testing is now considered part of routine health screening,” said Health Commissioner Harry Chen, M.D. “It can take about 11 years before a person with HIV develops any outward symptoms of AIDS, but early diagnosis can make such a big difference in the health and lives of those who are infected.”

An estimated 100 Vermonters have HIV but are not aware of it. Many people may learn of their status, and benefit from treatment, if they sought testing through their medical provider

The Health Department sponsors a website that provides information about how the virus affects health, the importance of early diagnosis, and the range of services available to those who test positive. Many of the messages feature Vermonters, including local medical providers, who talk about the lag time between infection and symptoms.

A new poster encourages patients to request the HIV test or to learn more through other Health Department resources like the websites or an informational hotline.

The Health Department, along with the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, recommends that all sexually active people age 13 to 64 be tested for HIV. Most health insurance plans will cover the test. The Health Department also provides information through its network of free and anonymous testing sites for people who may be at higher risk and not comfortable asking their doctor.

People who test with their medical provider can have a blood test or an oral fluid (swab) test. The Health Department-sponsored sites offer oral testing.

For more information, go to www.11years.org, or call the Health Department's toll-free AIDS Hotline at 800-882-2437 weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.